DUNMORE, Pa. — Here comes Santa Claus.
That jolly old elf found his way Saturday into the parking lot of St. Joseph's Center in Dunmore, not on a sleigh pulled by a flying reindeer, but bringing up the rear of a column of rumbling motorcycles, toys in tow for the center's good boys and girls.
It's all part of Christmas in July, a yearly tradition in Lackawanna County in which a group of motorcycle enthusiasts collect toys and gifts for the benefit of those in the center's residential care.
"We got all of our motorcycle friends, motorcycle enthusiasts, to spread some joy to the kids here at St. Joe's. I don't know who gets more enjoyment out of it, them or us," said Santa Claus.
The event has been held for the better part of a decade, though it took a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year, more than 40 motorcyclists went kickstands up at Electric City Harley-Davidson for what was a roughly 20-minute ride to St. Joseph's Center. The day was a collaboration between the motorcycle dealership and the Harley Owners Group of Electric City.
Bob Champagne, the club's director, said the yearly event brings a little holiday cheer to the dog days of summer "Just to be able to bring some joy for a day that fills our hearts."
Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, the CEO and President of St. Joseph's Center said the day is a gift for them as well, "St. Joseph's Center is really grateful for the support that we receive today the affirmation of the work we do and the concern they have for all of the individuals that we know through St. Joe's."
As for what's next for Santa Claus? "Go for a nice little ride on the bike and get back in the air conditioning. Maybe a trip back up to the North Pole to get the elves going and get them ready for December," he said.
The holidays are just five months away. At St. Joe's, they were close enough to touch.